Whilst many of the members of BSMEE are producing very complex models that take years to complete, nearly everyone has started of with simple models and a minimum of tools and equipment. These web pages shows some of these simple models and some of the tools used to construct them. Immediately below is a Grandfather/Grandchild project undertaken by one of our members.

A key thing to remember is that by joining the Society there are a large number of members more than willing to provide advice, experience and encouragement.

Grandfather/Grandchild Project

Today many children have not had the opportunity to share in the enjoyment of making something oneself with or without the aid of tools. Many are brought up to believe that "you buy things" rather that "making things". Therefore if we are to encourage youngsters into the model engineering hobby it is essential that steps be taken to encourage youngsters to "have a go" i.e. we need a Grandfather/Grandchild project.

This is a design for a very simple oscillating steam engine that has been designed to be made using a lathe, drilling machine and hand tools. The cylinder, flywheel, crankshaft and main shaft bearing are simple turning jobs that can, with supervision, be undertaken by a 10-year-old child. Also the milling of the support frame and the piston rod can be undertaken in the lathe thus demonstrating the versatility of that machine. The piston is made from precision ground mild steel and the cylinder is a piece of brass drilled and reamed to the size of the piston. The cylinder assembly is assembled using soft solder and the support frame assembled using nuts and bolts.

The engine works well at about 5 to10 pounds per square inch pressure. Steam or compressed air is quite suitable. Once made this engine may form the basis of something bigger, for example the engine could be used to drive some simple mechanism etc.

Copies of the sketches of the design are freely available from the Society; please send your request to us via the Web Master.

Some photographs of simple models and equipment

(click on the small pictures to enlarge)